DOHA, Qatar — Brazil coach Tite has hit back at criticism of his team’s dancing goal celebrations during the 4-1 victory over South Korea in the World Cup round of 16.
Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane was among the pundits to brand the dancing “disrespectful” as Brazil comfortably booked their place in the quarterfinals of the World Cup, where they play Croatia on Friday.
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But Tite said his players will continue to do it before blasting suggestions the celebrations showed a lack of respect to South Korea.
“I will not make comments to those who do not know Brazilian history and Brazilian culture the way each and every one of us is, I leave that noise aside,” Tite told a news conference on Thursday.
“I respect the culture, the way I am and the way this national team is. Lots of other kids will dance because it is Brazilian culture when a goal is scored.
“It is not being disrespectful, that is [us] and how we do things… as a culture and [it] will help the education of kids in school. We will continue doing things in our manner.”
Cameras caught Tite joining in his team’s celebrations during the victory over South Korea, with the 61-year-old following Richarlison‘s “pigeon dance” on the touchline.
